After being unemployed following over 20 years at a company, Laura Ford-Harris made the decision to return to college to finish her degree. However, after three decades away from school, she found university life and online classes overwhelming. Feeling discouraged and directionless, Ford-Harris contemplated dropping out again.
“I was in a new position as an adult learner in accelerated courses, and I didn’t know how to use online learning resources,” she said.
Fortunately, Ford-Harris had an adult daughter in higher education and several friends taking courses who helped her navigate the system—from uploading and downloading documents to applying for financial aid. They helped her create a successful experience.
Her personal undertaking a decade ago now helps Ford-Harris relate to individuals at Black Men Coalition, where she serves as the education and learning officer.
“Black Men Coalition founder and CEO Corey Marionneaux knew I’d be a good fit for the role since I understood what it was like to face barriers in adult education,” said Ford-Harris. “The role at Black Men Coalition was an opportunity I couldn’t resist.”
Ford-Harris uses her 34 years of experiences and learnings from working in nonprofit leadership with children and families to support individuals in Black Men Coalition’s eCornell Certificate program, a collaboration with Cornell University. The collaboration is designed to uplift underserved, vulnerable and formerly incarcerated individuals by providing accessible education that helps individuals gain valuable skills and qualifications in a supportive, inclusive community.
Programs are available to Dane County residents of all races and genders who have a high school education or GED, can read and write English, earn less than $70,000 annually and are committed to the program completion.
“Through eCornell, we offer 21 professional certificates in various disciplines,” said Ford-Harris. “The courses build in-demand skills needed in our community and local businesses, such as accounting, human resources and cybersecurity. These new skills propel our participants toward job opportunities.”
Some participants said they were deterred in high school from going to college and told “higher education is not for you.” Black Men Coalition is pleased to offer them another chance through life-changing opportunities.
Black Men Coalition offers a range of vital programs and services, including supported employment that includes interview preparation and transportation, and a financial literacy program in partnership with Summit Credit Union and the Dane County Sheriff’s Office for currently incarcerated residents, where upon completion a stipend is awarded to open an account. Through the transportation program, workers are dropped off and picked up at their jobs, so they can avoid costly parking expenses. Plus, Black Men Coalition has the largest youth baseball league for youth ages 4-12 with uniforms and more provided for free.
“One of our current students is working on his food and beverage management certificate and is engaged with people from around the world,” said Ford-Harris. “It’s thrilling to see the excitement on his face as he’s building the skills he needs to succeed.”
Another individual in the employment program received a cell phone when he started a new job with a local company.
Ford-Harris is passionate about helping adult learners earn certificates that lead to professional and personal growth.
“My lifelong dream has always been to work in higher education,” said Ford-Harris. “This role is everything I ever dreamed of, helping others learn skills so they can be proud and make a positive impact on their families’ success.”
Since Marionneaux founded Black Men Coalition three years ago, the organization has served over 1,000 individuals and grown to 11 staff members. Programs and eCornell courses, valued at $3,900 each, are offered to participants through a scholarship, made possible through annual fundraising and special events.
One such event is the second annual REVITALIZE Gala, coming up on Friday, Dec. 20 at the Edgewater Hotel from 5-9 p.m. with a celebration and dancing to follow. Sponsorship packages and tickets are available at bmcdc.org.
“This is a party with a purpose, and we need the community’s support to transform lives and improve the community for all. Sponsorships, ticket sales and contributions help us to expand support to even more people,” said Ford-Harris.
If you’d like to support this work or someone you know could benefit from mentorship, education, employment skills or housing support, please reach out to Black Men Coalition today at bmcdc.org.
